Coalition Backs NNRA, Calls For Increased Funding To Strengthen Nuclear Safety

Youth leaders and civil society stakeholders, under the leadership of Ambassador Akoshile Mukhtar, national vice president (North Central) of the National Youth Council of Nigeria (NYCN), have expressed their support for the director-general of the Nigerian Nuclear Regulatory Authority (NNRA).

They urged the federal government and the National Assembly to prioritise increased budgetary allocation to the NNRA in order to safeguard public health, environmental safety, and national energy security.

Addressing journalists yesterday in Abuja, Mukhtar commended the DG for his commitment to global best practices in nuclear regulation, radiation protection and energy oversight.

He stressed that the NNRA plays a pivotal role in protecting Nigerians from harmful radiation exposure, ensuring the safe application of nuclear technology, and boosting investor confidence in Nigeria’s energy and industrial sectors.

“The NNRA under its present leadership has not only upheld Nigeria’s international obligations but has also positioned the country as a responsible player in nuclear safety across Africa.
“This is the kind of leadership Nigeria needs to safeguard lives, protect our environment, and guarantee energy sustainability,” he said.

He warned that the chronic underfunding of the NNRA remains a critical challenge, as the agency is responsible for overseeing radiation safety in sensitive areas including healthcare, oil and gas, agriculture, industrial applications, defence operations, and the emerging nuclear energy sector.

“We are mobilising Nigerian youths and civil society to advocate for stronger support for the NNRA. Funding nuclear safety is not optional — it is essential. A well-resourced NNRA translates to a safer Nigeria, improved compliance with global standards, and greater investor trust,” he added.

At the end of their deliberations, the coalition of youth and civic stakeholders resolved to: “Engage with the National Assembly to push for increased appropriations to the NNRA in the 2025/2026 budget cycles.
“Mobilize nationwide public awareness campaigns on the importance of nuclear and radiation safety.

“Support the leadership of the NNRA in modernising regulatory frameworks and strengthening institutional capacity for better service delivery.

“Promote youth inclusion in nuclear safety initiatives, encouraging research, innovation, and capacity-building programs for young scientists and professionals.

“Encourage international cooperation by urging Nigeria to strengthen partnerships with the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) and other global regulatory bodies for training, knowledge exchange, and technical support.

“Highlight nuclear safety as a national security priority, ensuring preparedness against radiological emergencies, sabotage, or misuse of nuclear materials.

“Integrate nuclear safety into the climate change agenda, recognizing that safe and clean energy alternatives — including nuclear technology — are vital to Nigeria’s long-term energy transition goals.
The coalition concluded by urging policymakers to recognise the NNRA as a silent but strategic guardian of public safety and national development. They called on the federal government to “match commitment with resources” to ensure Nigeria’s nuclear safety architecture remains strong, credible, and globally respected.